Spicy Indian Tofu Curry
This is the kind of tofu curry that makes me forget I’m eating tofu.
Once those chunky pieces are covered in that dark, fiery sauce, I’m far more interested in getting enough rice to mop it all up.

I like a curry with some attitude, and this one definitely has it.
The sauce is thick, deeply spiced, and properly hot, with just enough richness to stop the chilli from taking over everything else.
The tofu needs to be chunky here. Little cubes would get completely lost in a sauce this bold.
Bigger pieces hold their shape and give you something substantial to bite into, while still picking up plenty of flavour around the outside.
There’s some red pepper in there too, which I love against all that spice.
It brings a little sweetness and breaks things up without turning this into a vegetable-heavy curry.
And yes, you’ll want rice. Lots of it. Not because the curry can’t stand on its own, but because leaving that sauce behind at the bottom of the bowl would be ridiculous.
By the end, my rice is usually more red than white, which is exactly how I want it.
Page Contents
ToggleWhy You’ll Love This Spicy Indian Tofu Curry
- Rich, bold Indian-inspired flavors.
- Crispy tofu that stays tender inside.
- Creamy tomato and coconut curry sauce.
- Ready in around 40 minutes.
- Naturally vegetarian and easy to make vegan.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers.
- Delicious served with rice or naan.

Ingredients
For the Tofu
- 400g extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Curry
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 400g chopped tomatoes
- 250ml coconut milk
- 120ml vegetable stock
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh coriander for serving
To Serve
- Cooked basmati rice
- Warm naan bread (optional)
How to Make Spicy Indian Tofu Curry
1. Prepare the tofu
Pat the tofu dry before cutting it into large cubes. Toss with cornstarch, paprika, turmeric and salt until evenly coated.
2. Cook until golden
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the tofu for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until crisp and golden on every side. Transfer to a plate.
3. Build the flavor
Reduce the heat slightly and add the onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened, then stir in the garlic and ginger. Cook for another minute before adding the chopped red pepper.
4. Toast the spices
Stir in the tomato paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric and chili powder. Let everything cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Make the sauce
Pour in the chopped tomatoes, coconut milk and vegetable stock. Stir well and simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce becomes thick and glossy.
6. Finish the curry
Return the crispy tofu to the pan and gently fold it through the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes so the tofu absorbs the flavors.
7. Serve
Spoon the curry alongside fluffy basmati rice and finish with freshly chopped coriander.
Tips for the Best Tofu Curry
- Press the tofu well so it crisps nicely.
- Toasting the spices before adding liquid gives the sauce a deeper flavor.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest, creamiest curry.
- Let the curry simmer until thick rather than watery.
- Taste before serving and adjust the salt or chili to suit your preference.
Variations
Add More Vegetables
Spinach, peas, cauliflower, chickpeas or green beans all work beautifully.
Make It Hotter
Add chopped fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Extra Creamy
Stir in a spoonful of plain yogurt or extra coconut milk before serving.
What to Serve With Tofu Curry
- Steamed basmati rice
- Garlic naan
- Cucumber raita
- Mango chutney
- Onion salad
- Poppadoms
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors become even richer overnight.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, the curry tastes even better the next day after the spices have had time to develop.
What type of tofu works best?
Extra-firm tofu is the best choice because it holds its shape and develops a crisp exterior before being added to the sauce.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes. This recipe is already vegan as long as your vegetable stock is vegan-friendly.
Is this very spicy?
It’s moderately spiced rather than extremely hot. Reduce the chili powder for a milder curry or add more if you enjoy extra heat.
Can I use air-fried tofu?
Absolutely. Air-fried tofu works perfectly and keeps the dish a little lighter while still adding plenty of texture.
